A Rose by Any Other Name – Neutrality of ICANN’s Top-level Domain Increase?

What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet. ~ William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

If names are not correct, language will not be in accordance with the truth of things. ~ Confucius

Anyone who has ever selected his own domain name can appreciate the complexities involved. Which domain name should I choose? How will my selection best communicate my mission? How will my choice distinguish my brand? ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) has added a new factor to this decision making process, by expanding the options for domain names to the right of the dot.

PBS Newshour’s Ray Suarez recently moderated a discussion of the potential pluses and minuses as seen by opposing stakeholders ICANN and the Association of National Advertisers. The upside being more domain names, greater access for Internet users worldwide, and increased branding potential. Who wouldn’t want the dot-me option? The downside being the loss of the status quo, the growth of domain names at a breakneck pace, and the increased potential for Internet misuse. Should established brands pay a “$185,000 price tag” to safeguard their trademarks?

So, as William Shakespeare expressed it best, “What’s in a name?” portend ICANN’s changes as neutral? Or as Confucius would suggest increasing top-level domains is tantamount to unbalancing the Internet, and thereby upsetting the apple cart. Share your thoughts on where you stand and whether this change will affect you.